Diaphragm spasms can have a range of causes. In most cases, they do not pose a serious health risk, but they can still cause discomfort.
It is also possible for a diaphragm spasm to indicate an underlying health condition. This article will discuss the symptoms, causes, and treatments for diaphragm spasms.
What is a diaphragm spasm or flutter?
A diaphragm spasm is a sudden, involuntary contraction that often causes a fluttering feeling in the chest. It is also common to experience a temporary tightness in the chest or difficulty breathing during the spasm.
The diaphragm is a muscle that acts as a partition between the upper abdomen and the chest. It plays a crucial role in the respiratory system by helping a person breathe.
The diaphragm contracts when a person breathes in, allowing the rib cage to expand so that oxygen can flow into the lungs. When they breathe out, it relaxes again to help push carbon dioxide out of the lungs.
There are several potential causes of a diaphragm spasm. The most common of these is a sudden blow to the abdomen or chest. Strikes to the chest are particularly frequent in contact sports such as rugby or boxing.
Although the symptoms can be uncomfortable, they will usually pass within a few minutes.
Other possible causes include:
Exercise
Exercise can cause cramps or stitches in the abdomen. These may occur when people fail to warm up properly or over-exert themselves. In some cases, the additional pressure from a stitch can trigger a diaphragm spasm.
Hiatal hernia
A hiatal hernia is a condition in which a part of the stomach moves up into the chest. Hiatal hernias occur when age, injury, or recent surgery weakens the muscle tissue in the diaphragm.
When a hiatal hernia occurs, part of the stomach pushes through an enlarged hiatal opening in the diaphragm. This can trigger a diaphragm spasm.
A hernia can be mild or serious, and its severity will determine any additional symptoms. The most severe cases require immediate medical attention as they can injure the stomach, cause bleeding, or interfere with breathing.
It is possible to mistake the symptoms of diaphragm spasms as those of a gastrointestinal or heart problem, as they are similar. In most cases, symptoms will subside after a few minutes without the need for diagnosis by a doctor.
However, if a person has frequent diaphragm spasms without an apparent cause, they should seek medical advice.
If the doctor suspects that an underlying medical condition is causing the spasms, they may use an X-ray, blood test, CT scan, MRI, endoscopy, or manometry to help with the diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatments for diaphragm spasms vary according to the underlying cause. Diaphragm spasms resulting from a sudden blow may cause discomfort, but symptoms should subside within a few minutes, making treatment unnecessary. It is essential to rest and concentrate on maintaining a regular breathing pattern while symptoms persist.
The following causes will require different treatments:
Exercise
Most diaphragm spasms that result from exercise will also go away without treatment. In cases where the spasms are persistent, it can help to stretch or put pressure on the surrounding muscles.
For example, gently pushing into the affected muscle using the fingers can help to relieve discomfort. Holding one hand over the head can also help, as it stretches the chest muscles.
Hiatal hernia
Doctors treat hiatal hernias in different ways, depending on their severity. In cases where symptoms are minimal, it can help to eat smaller, more frequent meals, or to take medication for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Surgery may be necessary in more severe cases, especially if the hernia causes complications.
Phrenic nerve irritation
Treating the cause of the phrenic nerve irritation is the best way to restore a regular breathing pattern. The cause will determine the treatment plan.
Outlook
The majority of diaphragm spasms are temporary and will go away within a few minutes. Specific body stretches, medications, and lifestyle changes can help to manage persistent symptoms.
If diaphragm spasms occur due to a health condition that requires medical attention, such as a hiatal hernia, phrenic nerve irritation, or diaphragmatic flutter, a doctor will help make a treatment plan for the individual.
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